Enhanced top management engagement in QHSE
One of the standout findings is the substantial increase in top management engagement in safety and quality activities. In recent years, there has been a notable shift towards allocating sufficient budget and resources to QHSE policies. This heightened involvement underscores the growing recognition of these activities' critical role in organisational success. The survey reveals that 69% of respondents agree that top management engagement has significantly increased. By investing in these initiatives, companies are not only ensuring compliance, but also promoting a culture of safety and quality that can lead to enhanced operational performance.
Evolving roles and responsibilities
75% of our respondents agree on the fact that the role of QHSE managers is undergoing a significant transformation. Traditionally focused on compliance and safety, these managers are now evolving into Risk & Compliance managers, addressing multiple facets of organisational risk.
This broader scope of responsibilities reflects the increasing complexity of regulatory environments and the need for a holistic approach to risk management. Departments now have well-defined boundaries and clear responsibilities, ensuring that compliance is maintained across various domains.
Interaction with ESG and CSRD Standards
Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) standards, along with the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), are becoming integral to Quality, Health, Safety, and Environment (QHSE) practices. According to our survey, 75% of respondents indicated frequent interactions with these standards within their organisation, underscoring the growing importance of sustainability and ethical practices in today’s business landscape. However, Dirk Roelens (Partner Business Consulting at Moore Belgium) points out that 25% of respondents still lack a clear vision in this area, which is a surprising result for him. By aligning QHSE activities with ESG and CSRD standards, companies can enhance their corporate reputation and meet the increasing demands for transparency and accountability from stakeholders.
Addressing psychological risks
The survey underscores the increasing priority of understanding and mitigating psychological risks at work. Standards such as ISO 45003, which focuses on Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems, are being increasingly adopted to address these risks. With 57% of respondents agreeing on the importance of addressing psychological risks and 39% remaining neutral on the topic, the audience appears divided.
This division highlights the need for further awareness and education on the critical role of psychological risk management. Despite this divide, the recognition by more than half of the respondents underscores the essential role of addressing psychological risks in promoting a healthy workplace environment, which in turn can improve employee well-being and productivity. By prioritising psychological risk management, organisations can create a supportive and resilient workforce capable of adapting to challenges and maintaining high levels of performance.
The importance of Information Security Management
As legislative and regulatory developments evolve, the importance of Information Security Management Systems (ISMS), particularly ISO 27001, is becoming more pronounced. The survey reveals that 80% of respondents view ISMS as crucial due to the need for certifications and compliance with stringent regulations. This focus on information security is essential in protecting sensitive data and maintaining the trust of
customers and stakeholders.
The role of specialised software
The administrative burden in managing safety and compliance is likely to increase, as indicated by 80% of respondents. To manage this complexity, the use of specialised software is becoming essential. Such software significantly contributes to improving quality and safety awareness within organisations, with 82% of respondents acknowledging its importance in managing continuously changing legislation and ensuring compliance.
Furthermore, 77% of respondents agree that QHSE software is essential in managing these ongoing changes and maintaining compliance.
AI in QHSE Management
The integration of AI and machine learning in QHSE management will revolutionise the field. The survey indicates that 73% of respondents agree that automated processes, including AI and machine learning, are expected to significantly improve compliance with regulations. Only 4% disagree, indicating strong support for the adoption of these technologies.
AI can streamline compliance monitoring, predict potential risks, and automate routine tasks, thereby reducing the administrative burden on managers. By leveraging AI, organisations can achieve higher accuracy in compliance and risk management, leading to safer and more efficient operations.
Additionally, automated processes, including AI and machine learning, are expected to further enhance compliance with regulations, making them indispensable tools in the modern landscape.
One integrated software platform for future-proof compliance
The survey provides a comprehensive overview of the current and future state of compliance management. Enhanced top management engagement, the evolving role of managers, the integration of ESG and CSRD standards, the focus on psychological risks, the importance of information security, and the increasing reliance on specialised software all point towards a dynamic and evolving field.
Additionally, the promising role of AI in improving compliance and efficiency marks a significant advancement. Organisations that proactively adapt to these changes will be better positioned to navigate the complexities of compliance and cultivate a culture of safety, quality, and sustainability.
The Bizzmine QHSE software offers one integrated platform for Quality Management, now enriched with the HSE (Health, Safety, and Environment) component, enabling our customers to ensure a more cohesive and efficient approach to managing quality and safety. This integration presents significant benefits, including streamlined processes, reduced administrative burdens, and enhanced visibility across all compliance activities. By having all these functionalities in a single platform, organisations can achieve greater operational efficiency and consistency.